Terry was able to combine until 7 last night…the cold and the moisture stayed off allowing the combine to work therefore, YEAH!!!! One field down and two more to go!

1/2 c butter, softened

3-3/4 c confectioners’ sugar

1/2 c sweetened condensed milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 c flaked coconut

2 jars (16 ounces each) maraschino cherries with steams, well drained and patted dry

2 packages (11-1/2 ounces each) milk chocolate chips

1 tablespoon shortening

1. In a large bowl, beat butter and confectioners’ sugar until smooth.  Beat in milk and vanilla until well blended and mixture looks like softened butter.  Fold in the coconut.

2. With moist hands shape 2 teaspoonfuls of coconut mixture around each cherry, forming a ball.  Place on a waxed paper-lined baking sheet.  Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour or freeze for 30 minutes.

2.  In a microwave, melt chocolate chips and shortening; stir until smooth.  Dip coated cherries into chocolate.  Place on waxed paper; let stand until set.  Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 month.

These never last 1 month at my house.  I use them as gifts for employees and bosses and for those I like, but do not want to embarass with a fancy/smancy gift.

Linda